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[25 June 2025] Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is now the Philippines’ leading wireless broadband provider in terms of subscribers, as it serves over 430,000 customers nationwide as of the first quarter of 2025.




This translates to a significant 44% of the wireless broadband subscriber base share, outpacing its closest competitor’s 42% subscriber base share within the same period.




“This milestone achievement is a testament to our unwavering pursuit of customer satisfaction and network excellence. Our growing subscriber base and market leadership also reflect the trust our customers place in our network and our commitment to delivering world-class connectivity,” said Anastacio R. Martirez, Smart Chief Operating Officer.



Connecting families in fiber-limited areas




Smart’s market-leading performance comes on the heels of its strategic launch of the Smart Home WiFi brand to carry products and services that cater to Filipino families living in fiber-limited areas, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.




As part of its launch, Smart Home WiFi unveiled the Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi. This prepaid and plug-and-play device offers unparalleled convenience, allowing customers to instantly set it up at home, in dorms, or small offices. It seamlessly connects up to 15 devices simultaneously, providing powerful internet access where fiber connectivity is unavailable.




Unlock the power of 5G




Smart Home WiFi is powered by Smart 5G, which enables customers to stream videos seamlessly, upload and download heavy files in seconds, instantly post and share content online, and play mobile games without lag.




Smart continues to strategically deploy its 5G infrastructure across the country as part of the PLDT Group’s continued investment in enhancing its integrated network, which is aligned with the Group’s commitment to deliver a leveled-up customer experience.




“The growth of our broadband subscriber base is just the beginning. Our customers can look forward to even more amazing products and innovative services as we continuously strive to delight them and cater to their evolving lifestyle needs – powered by our world-class network,” said Martirez.

Taguig City, 25 June 2025 – Pru Life UK and Prudence Foundation, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Junior Achievement (JA) Philippines, has expanded the Cha-Ching programme across the National Capital Region (NCR) and fully integrated into the Bicol Region (Region V) DepEd curriculum, reaffirming their commitment to fostering financial literacy among Filipino youth.




Bicol Region (Region V) has become the first region in the Philippines to institutionalise and fully integrate Cha-Ching into the Department of Education’s school curriculum—marking a major milestone in the expansion of financial literacy education through Cha-Ching. The programme also continues to expand in NCR. To date, over 1.5 million children have been taught Cha-Ching in the Philippines and over 47,000 teachers have been trained and retrained.




On 25 June, at an event themed “Cha-Ching: Creating a Financially Literate Future Together”, over 100 attendees—including representatives from Pru Life UK, Prudence Foundation, programme partners, and the Insurance Commission of the Philippines—gathered at the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City to celebrate these milestones, strengthen partnerships, and spotlight the programme’s long-term vision.




Paul Mandal, Chief Legal and Sustainability Officer of Pru Life UK, highlighted the company’s strong commitment to financial education and its partnership with DepEd in driving sustainable impact and building a resilient future.




“When we teach children the value of money early on, we are empowering a generation to make smarter choices and build a financially secure future,” Mandal said.




Created by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc, Pru Life UK’s parent company, Cha-Ching is an award-winning global financial literacy programme that empowers the next generation with the financial knowledge and skills to make informed decisions that build financial wellbeing and a resilient future. In collaboration with JA Asia Pacific, a school curriculum programme was developed for children aged seven to 12 to instill money smart values, knowledge, and behaviour. Over 3 million children have been taught the curriculum across 16 markets in Asia and Africa with over 87,000 teachers trained so far.






At the event, a panel discussion covering best practices in financial education was held in support of ongoing efforts in advancing financial literacy in the Philippines. The panel included Dr. Gilbert T. Sadsad, Regional Director of DepEd-Region V; Dr. Miguel Mac Aposin, Assistant Regional Director, DepEd Region VI, and Mr. Jed Velarde, President of the JA Philippines Board of Trustees.




To conclude the event, Prudence Foundation also delivered a presentation on the future of the Cha-Ching programme and the importance of collaboration to address the global gap of financial literacy.




Through these partnerships, Cha-Ching continues to empower the next generation and inspire change that begins from the classrooms and extend to the homes and wider communities.

In its continued bid to champion digital transformation in the Philippines, GCash is partnering with digital ordering platforms for restaurants, starting with Tablevibe. GCash users can now order food for delivery, pickup, or dine-in directly in the GCash app. As a gateway, this initiative aims to accelerate the trial and growth of food delivery, since a majority of its millions of GCash users have not yet tried the service.



By providing an integrated digital solution, GCash and Tablevibe aim to make digital food ordering far more accessible for Filipinos while helping restaurants save costs with low platform fees, gain direct access to millions of GCash users, and retain full ownership of their customer data.



Tablevibe, with a network of over 4,000 restaurants in the Philippines, including prominent names like Pickup Coffee, The Bistro Group, Kenny Rogers, Andok’s, 24 Chicken, The Moment Group, Frankie’s, and Chooks-To-Go, powers the ordering process end-to-end.



Through this partnership, GCash introduced its innovative Food Hub feature, accessible on the GCash app homepage. GCash users can now enjoy the convenience of ordering food for delivery and pick-up directly on the GCash app.



By directly placing their orders to restaurants, customers get exclusive deals and exclusive prices on Food Hub while enjoying low delivery fees even during peak hours. For example, The Bistro Group offers free delivery on all orders. Andok’s provides free delivery to all first-time customers, while 24 Chicken and BOK Chicken offer in-store prices for both pickup and delivery.



Adding to its suite of solutions, GCash also presents Scan-to-Order, a dine-in QR-based ordering solution. GCash Scan-to-Order allows restaurant diners to scan QR codes to browse menus, place orders, and pay for their orders directly from their phones. Customers are served at their table or promptly notified via push notifications when their meals are ready for pickup at the counter. This eliminates wait times, streamlines operations for restaurants, and enhances the overall customer experience.



One of the first adopters of GCash Food & Beverage (F&B) solutions is Dot Coffee, which operates coffee shops in Manila hotspots, including W City Center and The Mind Museum. Mikee Villareal, co-founder of Dot Coffee, said, “GCash F&B solutions provide our customers with an excellent user experience. It helps them skip the line, boosts our sales, and enables us to build our own customer database.”



Ren-Ren Reyes, president and CEO of GCash mobile wallet operator G-Xchange, Inc., said, “By connecting restaurants with our extensive user base, we’re helping businesses grow sustainably while enhancing convenience for our customers.”



Jeroen Rutten, CEO of Tablevibe, highlighted the benefits of enabling customers to interface directly with restaurants. “This partnership with GCash creates a direct link between our restaurant partners and millions of users, simplifying the food ordering journey and opening new sales opportunities.” Mathieu Sneep, co-founder and chief business officer of Tablevibe, added: “This partnership will help restaurants grow sales cost-effectively while enhancing efficiency and customer experiences. Initially, we’ll roll out this service to restaurants with more than five outlets. Businesses can register their interest through the GCash team or by requesting a demo at Tablevibe’s website (tablevibe.co).”



Through this collaboration, GCash and Tablevibe are not only redefining the food ordering experience in the Philippines but also empowering restaurants and consumers alike.

As part of its ongoing campaign to patrol social media platforms to reinforce public trust and ensure the security of cashless transactions, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), in collaboration with GCash, recently apprehended multiple suspects involved in cyber-related crimes that include child exploitation and illegal sale of pre-registered SIM cards.

In one undercover operation, officers intercepted an individual accused of trafficking a minor through a widely used online platform. The suspect allegedly arranged a meeting between the victim and a client at a hotel, unaware that law enforcement had been tracking the illegal activity. The operation, conducted by the PNP-ACG’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons/Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (Anti-TIP/OSAEC) team, successfully rescued the victim and placed the suspect in custody under Republic Act 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003), as amended by Republic Act 10364 (Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012).

Meanwhile, officers have intercepted multiple suspects engaging in the illegal sale of pre-registered SIM cards, a known tool for financial fraud and online scams. Law enforcement flagged transactions where registered SIMs were being sold on social media, offering anonymity for scammers operating in digital spaces. Several individuals were arrested under Republic Act 11934 (SIM Registration Act) in relation to Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), ensuring fraudulent activities tied to untraceable identities are curtailed. Additionally, violations under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) were noted in separate busts targeting cyber-enabled fraud schemes.

In response to these cyber threats, GCash reiterates its commitment to ensure that digital innovations remain a tool for empowerment rather than exploitation. As a trusted financial platform, GCash continues to work alongside authorities to safeguard users and uphold a secure, cashless ecosystem.

Both PNP-ACG and GCash urge the public to exercise caution when conducting financial transactions online, particularly on social media platforms. Suspicious activities may be reported to PNP-ACG via hotline numbers (02) 8414-1560 or 0998-598-8116, or through email at acg@pnp.gov.ph. GCash users may also file a report through the GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com, by messaging Gigi on the GCash website and typing “I want to report a scam,” or by calling 2882 for the GCash hotline.

To enhance security, GCash continues to remind users never to share their MPINs or OTPs with anyone and to avoid clicking suspicious links that could lead to phishing attempts or unauthorized account access. The company reiterates that it will never send private messages requesting personal information.

For more information, please visit https://www.gcash.com

It’s heating up inside the Pinoy Big Brother House as the PBB Celebrity Collab Edition heads into its final stretch! With Kapuso and Kapamilya stars under one roof, we’ve seen unexpected friendships, emotional moments, and now, the rise of the most talked-about duos of the season.

As they conquer more challenges and tasks inside the House, Maya is with them every step of the way! From keeping the Housemates cozy with Maya bleeves, to helping them rest easy with Maya pillows, and adding fun with Maya floaters—Maya has been right by their side, powering them through.

Through the Save or Spend Challenge, we’ve seen the joy on the Housemates’ faces every time they choose to save with Maya instead of splurging on samgyupsal parties, karaoke nights, and other tempting treats.

Now, with the Big Night just around the corner, it’s your turn to be strategic and go all-in for your favorite duo. Here are your ultimate savings hacks to keep them in the game:

1. Spend with Maya, Save More for Votes
Use Maya for your everyday gastos—pay bills, buy your morning coffee, or even do your online shopping—and you can boost your interest earnings up to 15% p.a. That’s extra funds you can use to vote and help your favorite duo make it to the top.

2. Vote Smart with Cashback
First time voting? You can get 100% cashback on your first vote in the Maya app. Yup, your first vote is practically free.

3. Refer your fandom, Earn Rewards
Get your fandom involved! Share your Maya invite code—when they sign up and spend at least ₱50, you both get ₱50. Keep referring and you can earn up to ₱15,000 in referral rewards. That’s a lot of votes (and a lot of power).

4. Always Be Vote-Ready
Don’t wait for eviction night panic. Cash in to your Maya Wallet ahead of time so you’re ready to save your duo with a few quick taps.

Whichever duo you’re supporting, it’s easy to save your favorite Housemate with Maya, the official voting partner of PBB Celebrity Collab Edition.

Stay tuned for new episodes and fresh happenings on GMA Network at 9:35 p.m. on weeknights and 6:15 p.m. on Saturday. Mayamayans can also stream every episode via Pinoy Big Brother’s YouTube page, the Kapuso Stream on the GMA Network YouTube channel, GMANetwork.com, Kapamilya Online Live, and iWantTFC.

Don’t just watch—be part of the action. Download the Maya app now, vote for your favorites, and start your #SaveWithMaya journey today! Visit maya.ph/pbb to learn more.

June is more than just halfway through the year—it’s a moment to stand tall, love louder, and celebrate inclusivity in all its radiant colors. And if you’re looking for the perfect backdrop to show your pride, SM City Marilao, SM Center Pulilan, and SM City Baliwag have rolled out vibrant, photo-worthy installations that practically scream, “Strike a pose!”

At SM City Marilao, you’ll find a dazzling rainbow arch hugged by a burst of colorful balloons and glowing stars. It’s playful, bright, and totally ready to match your energy—whether you’re flaunting your fiercest look or just vibing with your besties.

Over at SM Center Pulilan, the Pride setup gets an upgrade with a mesmerizing infinity mirror floor that reflects every hue of the heart-shaped rainbow light installation. It’s a Gen Z dream—LEDs, reflections, and a whole lot of love. Trust us, your next profile pic is waiting to be taken here.

And finally, SM City Baliwag offers a cozy, colorful lounge spot with rainbow backdrops and soft bean bags you can chill on between shopping sprees. It’s giving fun, friendly, and photo op central.

These pride-themed spots aren’t just for photos—they’re safe spaces that honor and spread the message of love and equality. Make sure to stop by, snap a pic, and celebrate the freedom to be you. These Pride Month installations are only up until the end of June. Tag your crew, grab your phone, and make memories that shine as bright as you do.

MANILA, PH – June 2025 – Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. recently announced the appointment of Jonathan Juan “JJ” Moreno as the company’s new President. This strategic leadership move reinforces Sun Life’s commitment to strengthening its position as the number 1 life insurance company in the Philippines.



Moreno brings with him over 20 years of experience as a seasoned business executive, having held leadership roles across various industries. Most recently, he served as the President and CEO of the financial technology (FinTech) company behind Beep cards, AF Payments Inc. A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, Moreno is known for his ability to drive strategy execution and lead organizational transformation. He has consistently demonstrated a results-driven, values-centered, and Client-focused leadership style.



“JJ Moreno’s appointment is a significant step in our journey, as we strive to further elevate Sun Life’s impact in the lives of Filipinos,” said Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines. “His proven track record of achieving results with integrity, combined with his transformational leadership, will be instrumental as we continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our Clients and advisors.”



As Sun Life Philippines continues to innovate and grow, Moreno’s leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the organization. His appointment underscores Sun Life’s unwavering commitment to helping Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.



“I am deeply honored and excited to embark on this new chapter with Sun Life Philippines,” Moreno said. “In a rapidly changing world, we are accelerating our transformation to be a future-ready and Client-centric leader in the industry. The possibilities are endless, and Sun Life is ready to lead the way.”



To learn more about Sun Life Philippines, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. To stay updated, follow Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Let’s be real: freelancing looks like freedom, but behind the curated schedules and café-hopping gigs lies a truth every gig worker knows—one accident, one delay, one missed opportunity can throw your whole month off balance. No gigs, no income, no backup.

Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, gets it. That’s why it’s making it easier than ever for freelancers to enjoy perks usually reserved for the 9-to-5 crowd. We’re talking high-yield savings, instant access to credit, seamless payments, and now, insurance coverage built for your lifestyle.

With Maya Savings, you can earn up to 15% interest per annum just by letting your money sit smart. Got an emergency? Maya Easy Credit gives you instant access to up to ₱30,000 right inside the app. And if you’re looking to spend smarter, Maya also offers credit cards built for your lifestyle: the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card gives you up to 5% cashback at Landers Superstores, 2% on dining, and 1% on most everyday spends, while the Maya Black Credit Card lets you earn Maya Miles on every swipe—use it to shop, dine, or soon fly wherever your hustle takes you.

And because life doesn’t always go as planned, Maya now gives you access to Singlife’s Cash for Income Loss (Accidents), a straightforward insurance plan you can get for as low as ₱1,196/year, with cash benefits of up to ₱50,000 per month for 36 months if an accident puts you out of work. No fine print, no long forms, just real financial support when you need it most. The best part? You can purchase it directly through the Maya app, along with other Singlife plans like Cash for Goals, Cash for Medical Costs, and the 3-in-1 Protection Plan.

Here’s your sign: When you purchase any of these Singlife plans in Maya until the end of June, you get ₱500 cashback. It’s coverage with benefits, just the way freelancers like it.

Speaking of perks, if you’re transferring your freelance earnings from PayPal, make sure you’re doing it through Maya. With a minimum transfer of ₱7,000, you’ll get ₱250 cashback.

Whether you’re recovering from a curveball or gearing up for your next big win, Maya’s got your back. From protection to perks, this is how freelance life should feel—empowered, supported, and paid in full.

Visit maya.ph/freelancer, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay in the loop. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.